Find a Job You Really Want In
A master’s degree in finance offers a wide array of lucrative employment opportunities. Graduates often find themselves in roles across accounting, investing, banking, and various analytical positions. Given the quantitative nature of these careers, proficiency with numbers is essential.
The finance sector requires meticulous attention to detail and analytical thinking. As a result, many positions in this field are highly compensated, making finance a strong choice for those prioritizing salary in their career decisions.
Key Takeaways:
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A finance degree opens doors to roles in accounting, investing, analysis, and banking.
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Finance careers are generally well-paid, making them attractive to salary-focused individuals.
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Most finance roles demand strong mathematical and technological skills.
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Many positions can be pursued with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree; however, a master’s often enhances earning potential.
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Despite its importance, the finance industry has faced scrutiny, particularly following past economic crises.
10 Best-Paying Jobs for People With a Master’s in Finance
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Average Annual Salary: $95,000
Wealth management advisors provide guidance on managing assets, requiring a deep understanding of investments, tax strategies, and risk management. Collaborating with financial advisors and legal experts is commonplace.
Required Skills: Collaboration, strong mathematical capabilities, financial knowledge, and customer service skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $150,000
CFOs oversee all financial operations in an organization, engaging in strategic planning, budgeting, and financial analysis.
Required Skills: Leadership, financial acumen, attention to detail, and effective communication.
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Average Annual Salary: $82,000
Investment analysts assess various investment opportunities, providing recommendations based on market research and risk analysis.
Required Skills: Attention to detail, analytical thinking, risk assessment, and communication skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $90,000
Actuaries evaluate financial risks using statistics and data analysis, creating reports and visual aids to communicate findings.
Required Skills: Strong analytical skills, mathematical proficiency, and effective communication.
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Average Annual Salary: $72,000
Finance analysts evaluate financial data to guide future business decisions, requiring robust analytical and reporting skills.
Required Skills: Strong analytical and mathematical capabilities, risk management, and organization.
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Average Annual Salary: $95,000
Real estate agents guide clients through property transactions, benefitting from a background in finance for budgeting and legal compliance.
Required Skills: Customer service, market knowledge, time management, and rapport building.
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Average Annual Salary: $105,000
Controllers manage financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance within organizations, ensuring financial integrity.
Required Skills: Integrity, accounting expertise, and strong communication.
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Average Annual Salary: $130,000
Investment associates recommend strategies to clients based on extensive market research and investment knowledge.
Required Skills: Experience in finance, risk assessment, and strong communication skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $105,000
Finance managers oversee departments, develop financial strategies, and provide guidance to executives.
Required Skills: Strong analytical and managerial skills, risk management, and people skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $78,000
Business analysts evaluate data to recommend business strategies, focusing on market trends and company performance.
Required Skills: Analytical skills, business acumen, and effective communication.
10 Entry-Level Jobs for People With a Master’s in Finance
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Average Annual Salary: $56,000
Accountants manage financial records and ensure accuracy, working for individuals, businesses, or accounting firms.
Required Skills: Attention to detail, organizational skills, and proficiency in accounting software.
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Average Annual Salary: $65,000
Internal auditors assess financial operations and compliance within organizations, safeguarding against fraud.
Required Skills: IT proficiency, analytical thinking, and integrity.
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Average Annual Salary: $59,000
Insurance adjusters assess claims and determine payouts while investigating potential fraud.
Required Skills: Evaluative skills, attention to detail, and analytical ability.
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Average Annual Salary: $52,000
Tax preparers assist clients in filing taxes, requiring expertise in tax law and regulations.
Required Skills: Attention to detail, communication skills, and tax expertise.
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Average Annual Salary: $66,000
Finance advisors offer financial planning services to clients, helping them reach their financial goals.
Required Skills: Customer service, analytical skills, and strong communication.
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Average Annual Salary: $61,000
Stock brokers facilitate trades and offer investment advice, often working on commission.
Required Skills: Sales skills, regulatory knowledge, and communication proficiency.
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Average Annual Salary: $40,000
Accounts payable clerks manage invoices and ensure accurate financial records.
Required Skills: Attention to detail, integrity, and strong organizational skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $63,000
Underwriters assess risks for insurance and loan applications, determining terms and approvals.
Required Skills: Analytical skills, attention to detail, and strong mathematical abilities.
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Average Annual Salary: $48,000
Loan officers evaluate applications and determine loan eligibility, often requiring strong analytical skills.
Required Skills: Risk assessment, customer service, and attention to detail.
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Average Annual Salary: $45,000
Mortgage loan processors assist in the loan approval process, working closely with clients and underwriters.
Required Skills: Communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
Finance Master’s Degree Options
While a finance degree is advantageous, there are similar programs worth considering. Here are some alternative paths:
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Accounting. This degree overlaps with finance, focusing on budgeting and financial management.
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Business Administration. A broader degree that includes financial management as a key component.
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Statistics. Essential for analysis and investment decisions, providing a solid foundation for finance roles.
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Taxation. Specializing in tax law can enhance your expertise in various financial positions.
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Economics. Offers insights into market trends and economic principles applicable to finance.
Master’s in Finance Jobs FAQ
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What can you do with a master’s degree in finance?
A master’s degree in finance opens the door to various financial positions, including accounting, banking, and investment roles. It equips you with essential money management skills, preparing you for diverse financial careers.
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What skills do you need for finance jobs?
Crucial skills for finance roles include attention to detail, integrity, mathematical proficiency, risk assessment, and technological aptitude. Most positions require diligent analysis of financial records, emphasizing accuracy in details.
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Do employees with a master’s in finance get paid more?
Generally, those with a master’s in finance tend to earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree. However, specific job requirements may vary, as some roles can be accessed with a bachelor’s. A master’s degree enhances your appeal to employers and can lead to better compensation, but consider whether the salary increase justifies the cost of further education.
Author
Di has been a writer for more than half her life. Most of her writing so far has been fiction, and she’s gotten short stories published in online magazines Kzine and Silver Blade, as well as a flash fiction piece in the Bookends review. Di graduated from Mary Baldwin College (now University) with a degree in Psychology and Sociology.
